Greetings Dr. Muthen! I have two general questions regarding exploratory latent class analysis. First, are there rules regarding sample size? Second, do formal tests of significance exists for testing differences between subgroups within a sample? More specifically, if separate analyses are run for subgroups within a sample are formal tests of significance available (and necessary) to compare and test for differences in results between subgroups? Finally, can you identify reference materials that speak to these issues. Thanks for your help. JT

There are no rules regarding sample size. The best way to determine the sample size needed for your particular data is to do a Monte Carlo simulation study where you generate data according to the values in your data set. See below for more details:

In latent class analysis, you can include the grouping variable as a covariate given that the only parameters that vary are thresholds or intercepts. You can also use the KNOWNCLASS option to define the groups and test equalities using difference testing or MODEL TEST. See also the reference below: